Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
euphemize
verb
/ˈjuːfəmˌaɪz/
Definition
To replace a word or phrase with a more mild or vague expression, often to make something unpleasant sound better.
Examples
- He decided to euphemize the harsh truth by saying she ‘passed away’ instead of ‘died’.
- Using euphemisms in business communication can help maintain professionalism during difficult conversations.
- Instead of saying someone was fired, she euphemized it by mentioning they were ‘let go’.
Meaning
Euphemizing is a way of softening the impact of what is being said, particularly in sensitive or potentially offensive contexts.
Synonyms
- soften
- downplay
- sanitize
- gloss over
- moderate
